What is the difference between a Doula and a Midwife?

A doula is a person who supports pregnant women and their families during pregnancy, birth and postpartum. This support is on an emotional and logistical level; for example, coaching you through your birth options, and how to best prepare for your desired birth.

We also ensure that your wishes are respected by providing you with all the relevant information regarding the logistics surrounding birth in a hospital or at home, such as informing you on protocols and what equipment is available to you.

A midwife is a medical professional that can perform clinical tasks, such as fetal heart monitoring, blood pressure monitoring, and vaginal exams.

Can you advocate for my birthing choices?

Throughout the process, I will help you get the information and clarity you need to make informed decisions. Legally, only you and your partner can speak on your own behalf regarding matters where healthcare decisions are being made.

As your doula, I can discuss your concerns with you, and I can suggest options, as well as encourage you to voice your opinions and questions with the clinical staff, and I can also remind you if there is a departure from your birth vision.

How can you contribute to my birthing experience?

I cannot take the discomfort away, but I can help you optimise the remarkable cocktail of labour hormones that help to minimise your perception of discomfort. A study published on February 14, 2013 in the American Journal of Public Health showed that doula support in childbirth is associated with a 40% decrease in cesarean deliveries. Six weeks after birth, mothers who had a doula:

  • Were less anxious and depressed
  • Had more confidence with their baby
  • Were more satisfied with their partner (71% vs. 30%);
  • Were more likely to be breastfeeding (52% vs. 29%)

Why give birth in Barcelona?

Firstly, because you can. It is your human right, as a pregnant woman, to give birth in the Catalan Public Health system. Secondly, because Barcelona is a great city with many birthing options:

  • You can give birth in a private clinic.
    For that you will need a private health insurance policy, or you can hire a private doctor independently of an insurance company.

  • You can go to a birthing centre. In Catalunya there are currently two; One is public, and the other is private.

  • You can have a homebirth. Catalunya is the region of Spain with the highest number of independent midwives who can give one-to-one care for your comfort and security